Grantees: Youth Leadership Development
Addison Northwest School District
Strong, supportive, and dynamic middle level education is imperative for students in some of their most vulnerable educational years. Research shows how Middle Level learners have unique, developmental needs in order to truly thrive. In response to real time need, Addison Northwest School District has been working towards the expansion
of our middle school! Vergennes Union Middle School, will begin as a 7-8th grade middle school in 2023, and move into a 6-8th grade middle school for SY 24. Our vision, built in partnership with educators, families, and students, is clear: a middle school that prioritizes student psychological well-being, school culture, and real-world driven learning experiences.
Teen Center - Experience Counts
The Teen Center is a nonprofit located in Middlebury, VT. Our mission is to offer space, programming and resources that support teen development and well-being. We offer after school drop-in, enrichment programs, and summer camp to youth ages 12-18. All programs are free or pay-what-you-can. With this grant, we will create an internship program for youth ages 14-18 who staff identify as 'at-risk' in terms of high school completion and/or employability. Accepted youth will be offered a paid internship which will blend job training, social-emotional learning, and academic support. We will work with them to identify strengths and areas for improvement in a supportive environment, and help them set and achieve academic and employment goals.